Congress protests minority persecution in Bangladesh, demands trade resumption
Kailashahar, Nov 30, 2024, TRIPURATIMES Desk
Kailashahar, Nov 30: The Kailashahar District Congress organized a massive protest on Saturday at the Manu Land Customs area near the India-Bangladesh border. The rally was held to condemn the persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh, the arrest of ISKCON preacher Chinmoy Krishna Das, and the ongoing halt in trade through the Manu Land Customs.
The protest began with a march from the District Congress office, passing through various areas of the town before concluding at the Radha Kishore Institution grounds with a public meeting. The rally was attendded by MLA Birajit Sinha, District Congress President, Mohammad Badruzzaman, and other Congress leaders like Rudrendu Bhattacharjee and Chandrashekhar Sinha.
During the protest, Birajit Sinha sharply criticized the central government for inaction, alleging that the persecution of minorities in Bangladesh mirrored similar issues in India. Sinha demanded the immediate release of Chinmoy Krishna Das and urged Bangladesh to stop its systemic attacks on religious minorities.
Badruzzaman emphasized that the ongoing violence in Bangladesh is not only a violation of human rights but also risks harming bilateral relations. Badruzzaman urged authorities to take decisive action to ensure the safety and rights of minorities in Bangladesh.
MLA Sinha also criticized the halt in trade through the Manu Land Customs, calling it a deliberate move by some factions of the ruling party to seek attention. Birajit Sinha also warned that if trade does not resume within 24 hours, he himself would lead efforts to reopen the border. The suspension of trade has severely impacted laborers, drivers, and poor communities dependent on this route for their livelihood.
MLA Sinha concluded by stating that the current situation in Bangladesh, particularly following government changes, poses a global concern. Sinha demanded immediate action to protect minorities and ensure the release of Chinmoy Krishna Das.